8 Tips for Raising Environmentally Friendly Cats and Dogs

Maybe you live a green lifestyle. How about your pets? You can raise eco-friendly pets by following these eight simple steps.

1. Adopting is Greener than Breeding

The first step to going green is adopting a cat, kitten, dog, or puppy from your local animal shelter or rescue group. You can even find purebreds at your local shelter. Between four and five million dogs and cats are put down each year at animal shelters across the country. Imagine the good you will do for the dog or cat you adopt from a shelter.

2. Spay or Neuter Your Pets

It’s a good way to reduce the pet overpopulation problem.

3. Buy a Good Quality Natural Pet Food

So many pet food companies are now manufacturing pet foods with wholesome ingredients.

4. Shop for Pet Supplies Locally

Less time spent driving is better for your health, your pets, and the environment.

5. Buy Pet Products Made with Natural, Organic, or Recycled Materials

Even with natural products, limit the numbers of toys. Too many toys around the house often wind up ignored. Rotate the toys. Put some away, and take out one or two to play with your pet.

6. Use Biodegradable Poop Bags

Always clean up after your dogs.

7. Use Biodegradable Litter

Options include litter made out of corn kernels, pine, or recycled newspaper.

8. Recycle Cardboard Boxes

Cats love to hide and play inside of them.

Please add your environmentally-friendly suggestions in the comments section.

Michele C. Hollow writes about pets, wildlife, interiors, and travel. Her blog, which covers pet care and animal advocacy, is Pet News and Views.